Constantine Spanopoulos (twelfth century)

Two strikes. Punctured on both edges for use as a pendant or medallion.

Previous Editions

Cf. Wassiliou-Seibt, Siegel mit metrischen Legenden I, no. 1234.

Obverse

The strike above presents Saints Constantine and Helena standing, with the True Cross between them. On either side, inscriptions: κ||νε|λ|ε|ν : Κων(σταντίνος) - Ἑλέν[η]. Border of dots. The strike below, at a right angle to the one above, shows the Mother of God standing between two angels. Remnants of an inscription visible at left: ̅|κυ|ρ : Μή(τη)ρ [Θ(εο)ῦ ἡ] Κυρ[ιωτίσσα]. Border of dots.

Reverse

The strike above shows a metrical inscription of four lines with a cross above. Border of dots. The strike below, at a right angle to the one above, shows a metrical inscription of five lines. Border of dots.

Translation

Κωνσταντίνου σφράγισμα τοῦ Σπανοπούλου.

Seal of Constantine Spanopoulos.

σκέποις Λαχανᾶν Ἰωάννην, παρθένε.

May you, Virgin, protect John Lachanas.

Commentary

The flan of this seal shows two separate strikes, one by Constantine Spanopoulos, the other by John Lachanas, with distinct images and inscriptions. Both strikes have been edited here, but it is not possible to determine who was the first man to use the blank.

Note the exact similarity in image and inscription of the seal of John Lachanas: BZS.1958.106.3440.

Accession number

BZS.1958.106.5747

Diameter

34 mm

Field diameter

16 mm

Condition

Two strikes. Punctured on both edges for use as a pendant or medallion.